Straw polls would measure public opinion
To the editor:
Governmental officials have constantly asked for the populaces’ input on a variety of issues. Here is something that could be considered: Concerned Citizens Vote. Here is how it could be implemented. On controversial matters a simple vote sheet could be held at city hall for five days, Monday through Friday, for those concerned enough to vote on a particular matter.
Example: Waste to Energy plant. On the vote sheet one could vote up or down or have all bids to a proposal distributed out with a confidence vote. Such as plant No. 1 on a scale of 1 to 5, 1 being the most preferred how do you vote? Energy plant No. 2 How do you vote? Etc.
To vote you need only show that you are a registered voter. That this will only concern those who are concerned on the matter, voter turnout will be at a minimal level; an instant snapshot as to the populaces’ attitude on the subject.
Specific votes could be designated by stipulating the community that is involved, such as C.C.C.C. voters, (Cape Coral only voters as F.M.C.C. Voters would be for Fort Myers only) Vote would be non binding and to be perceived as a tool for city council to use or reject without publicizing results of the C.C. vote.
Bernard Forand
Cape Coral